When a solar panel is hot, the difference between the rest state and the excited energy state is smaller, so less energy is created. The opposite happens when a solar panel is cooler.
While extreme heat can reduce a solar panel's efficiency, they continue to function effectively, even in high temperatures. In the UK, around 40% of a solar panel system's energy is generated in the summer, showing its strong performance in warmer months.
Solar panels, just like your car, appliances, and devices, function best when operating under an optimal temperature. As the temperature goes up, the energy output of a solar panel goes down, reducing its ability to function at full capacity. Why does this happen?
It is important to remember that is only the light energy from the sun that solar panels use. The temperature does not change the amount of energy generated by a solar panel, so it doesn't matter if it is a hot or cold day, It is only the strength of sunlight that makes a difference.
Are solar panels less efficient at hot temperatures?
This isn't true. While it's correct that solar panels are less efficient at hot temperatures, this reduction is relatively small, and was not the main reason for firing up coal power stations. We spoke to Mr Wilson, who confirmed that the article he had read said that there was a "severe" fall in output, not that the panels had to be taken offline.
“The heatwave made solar panels too hot to work efficiently,” reported right-wing UK newspaper the Telegraph. Industry groups say that's not the full story, however. More solar power is produced in the summer than any other time - regardless of how hot it gets, says Solar Energy UK.
Solar panels are vulnerable to heat because of their operating environment and construction materials. The most obvious factor is that panels are usually placed where they can absorb direct sunlight for maximum energy capture, which naturally raises their temperature.